ask: What alternative to takign Forteo to build bones for spinal fusion is there?

Hi,
Here is information about Forteo that you likely have already reviewed:
MedlinePlus: Forteo (Teriparatide).

I did see the side effect of possible (and very rare) bone cancer found in the laboratory, but am wondering if your doctor prescribed this to you because:
a) the benefits outweigh any possible risk
b) the side effects are seen in patients who use this drug for up to 2 years; you are using it only for 3 months for a very specific purpose.

The other side effects I read about this drug are common (dizziness, headache...the same you would find with any drugs, I assume), and occur in only some cases.

With all of this in mind, there are numerous medications used for osteoporosis, but according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, the only drug used for the specific purpose you are needing it for (building bones) is teriparatide (Foreo). This website states that there are osteoporosis medications for:
- Prevention and Treatment
- Bone Remodeling
- Antiresorptive (bisphosphonates)
- Other antiresorptive
- Bone forming

Have you talked with your doctor about your very valid concerns regarding the side effects of this medication? S/he should absolutely know your concerns, and talk with you about possible other alternatives and/or be able to ease your mind about the latest research on this specific medication.

Please let us know what other information we can provide.

The best website with short accurate information about different osteoporosis medication is www.cvbonehealth.com. Under their patient info tab, you can find 1 page pdf documents on several different medications (including Forteo).

Between the drug companies, lawyers, and the FDA it is very difficult to get good answers. Good doctors really are the best source and the doctors at the Cedar Valley Bone Health Institute have done their homework and lay out the risks and benefits in an easily understood manner.